The Research Councils welcome the statement in the Chancellor's budget speech today of a major increase in the Science Budget over the next three years. In particular the commitment to 10 year Science and Innovation Investment Framework is extremely welcome as it will provide the long term stability that research requires.
Research Councils also welcome the news that they will be able to draw down End-Year-Flexibility in 2007-08 as this reduces uncertainty in the short term, and will enable Research Councils to meet their commitments.
Speaking on behalf of Research Councils UK, Professor Ian Diamond said:
"It is wonderful news that the Chancellor has given such a positive message of support for the UK research base. UK research and researchers are world class, and the Research Councils are committed to maintaining this excellence and maximising the impact that research has on the economic development and quality of life of the people of the UK and beyond.
We also welcome the recognition of our effective collaboration with the Technology Strategy Board and are committed to enhancing our partnerships with them to maximise the impact of UK research on the economy."
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Contact
Julia Short
RCUK Press Officer, Tel: 01793 444435
About Research Councils UK
The eight Research Councils are independent non-departmental public bodies, funded by the Science Budget through the Office of Science and Innovation. They are incorporated by Royal Charter and together manage a research budget of over £2.8 billion a year.
Research Councils UK (RCUK) is the partnership between the UK's eight Research Councils. Through RCUK, the Research Councils work together to champion the research, training and innovation they support.
The eight UK Research Councils are:
Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
Council for the Central Laboratory of the Research Councils (CCLRC)
Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC)
Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
Medical Research Council (MRC)
Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
Particle Physics & Astronomy Research Council (PPARC)